Antimicrobial Sports Apparel May Benefit From Heated Drying

Cocona, a fabric that contains active carbon made from recycled coconut shells, provides both sun protection and odor resistance. Some sports apparel manufacturers now offer clothes made from this material, such as the Vapor collection from Champion's sports clothing line. The Cocona company specifically recommends washing their clothes in warm water and drying them in the dryer, rather than hanging them to dry, to maximize the odor management characteristics of the carbon-based fabric. But consider the style of garment and the potential for shrinkage before putting sports apparel in the dryer, and read the label for guidance. If you are concerned about shrinkage, avoid the dryer and dry the Vapor athletic clothing or other Cocona fabrics with a hand-held hair dryer.